Passengers Stunned as Traveler Brings Enormous Great Dane Onto Plane
Airplane passengers were left astonished when an emotional support Great Dane, almost the size of a small horse, boarded their flight, creating a buzz both on the plane and online.
The Unusual Passenger
The massive dog caught attention as it walked down the aisle, its size making it impossible to miss. According to Rob (@clearpath_coach), who shared the moment on Instagram, the dog even got its own seat after stepping on a flight attendant’s toe, eliciting an amusing reaction.
Rob captioned his post:
“Me: Have we taken this support animal thing too far? Society: Hold my beer.”
He later confirmed that everyone, including the flight attendant and the dog, was fine.
Mixed Reactions From the Public
Social media users had varied responses:
- Criticism for Allergies and Space
Some were concerned about passengers with pet allergies or those uncomfortable sitting near large animals.“If you want to take a dog, take a dog, but don’t pass it off as a service dog just to circumvent policy.”
- Support for the Great Dane
Others appreciated the dog’s calm demeanor, preferring it over unruly passengers.“I’d rather sit next to the sweet giant than another person.”
- Humor and Amazement
Many marveled at the dog’s size and joked about the situation.
Regulations Around Emotional Support Animals
This unusual sight highlights ongoing debates about emotional support animals on flights. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently tightened rules, stating that only trained service dogs are allowed in cabins.
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Passengers were stunned to see the dog enter the plane. Credit: urbazon/Getty Images
Under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA):
- Service animals must be dogs specifically trained to assist individuals with disabilities.
- Emotional support animals, including other species or untrained dogs, are no longer recognized as service animals.
- Airlines have discretion to transport other animals but are not required to do so.
The Final Word
While the Great Dane brought smiles to some passengers, the incident underscores the complexities of accommodating emotional support animals on flights.
Featured Image Credit: urbazon/Getty Images
